Utah is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the United States, often referred to as the “Mighty 5.” Here’s a suggested road trip itinerary that covers these incredible parks.
Utah National Parks Road Trip
National Parks to Visit
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Arches National Park
- Canyonlands National Park
Suggested Itinerary (7-10 days)
Day 1-2: Zion National Park
- Hike the Narrows or Angels Landing
- Explore Emerald Pools
- Drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
- Watch sunrise at Bryce Amphitheater
- Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail
- Drive to Rainbow Point for panoramic views
Day 4-5: Capitol Reef National Park
- Drive the scenic Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
- Hike to Hickman Bridge
- Explore the Fruita Historic District
Day 6-7: Arches National Park
- See Delicate Arch (especially at sunset)
- Hike the Devils Garden Trail
- Visit Windows Section and Double Arch
Day 8-9: Canyonlands National Park
- Explore Island in the Sky district
- Visit Mesa Arch at sunrise
- Check out Grand View Point Overlook
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, wildflowers
- Fall (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds
- Avoid summer if possible due to extreme heat and crowds
Travel Tips
- Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) for entry to all parks
- Book accommodations well in advance, especially in high season
- Carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks
- Download offline maps as cell service is limited in many areas
- Consider staying in Moab when visiting Arches and Canyonlands
Utah National Parks Road Trip Map
Utah National Parks Road Trip with Kids
Taking a Utah national parks road trip with kids is an awesome idea. The Mighty 5 parks are full of family-friendly adventures, and with the right planning, you can make it a fun and memorable experience for everyone. Here’s a kid-friendly itinerary:
Day 1-2: Zion National Park
- Riverside Walk (paved, stroller-friendly trail leading to the Narrows)
- Lower Emerald Pool Trail (easy 1.2-mile round trip)
- Zion Nature Center (ranger programs for kids)
- Ride the free shuttle through the scenic canyon
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
- Rim Trail (partially paved with stunning viewpoints)
- Queens Garden Trail (easier portion of trails down among the hoodoos)
- Junior Ranger program
- Stargazing programs (Bryce has incredible dark skies)
Day 4-5: Capitol Reef National Park
- Fruita orchards (seasonal fruit picking)
- Petroglyph Panel viewing (short walk)
- Hickman Bridge (moderate 1.8-mile round trip)
- Historic Gifford Homestead (pioneer history and homemade pies!)
Day 6-7: Arches National Park
- Windows Section (short trails to spectacular arches)
- Sand Dune Arch (kids love playing in the sand)
- Double Arch (easy 0.5-mile round trip)
- Junior Ranger program
Day 8-9: Canyonlands National Park
- Island in the Sky district (most accessible with kids)
- Mesa Arch (easy 0.5-mile loop)
- Whale Rock (fun scramble for energetic kids)
Tips for Road Tripping with Kids:
- Plan for shorter driving days (max 3-4 hours)
- Visit parks in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and first aid supplies
- Download offline maps, as cell service is limited in many areas
- Consider staying in towns like Springdale, Moab, or Torrey rather than moving every night
- Build in pool time at hotels for afternoon breaks
- Bring binoculars, field guides, and nature journals for kids
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